19th June 2025 23:31:41 Hours
The Annual Sapper Officers’ Cricket Encounter 2025, held on Monday, 17th June 2025 at the Sappers Cricket Ground – Mattegoda, was a spectacular display of cricketing excellence and camaraderie. The much-anticipated match between the Sappers Blue team and the Sappers Red team enthralled the audience with an exciting exhibition of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship—truly embodying the spirit of the Sapper Officers. Major General Lanka Amarapala RWP RSP ndc psc, the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Army and the Colonel Commandant of the Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers, graced the event as the Chief Guest and also participated as a key player for the Sappers Blue team.
As the sun bathed the Sappers’ Cricket Ground in golden light, the atmosphere was perfect with anticipation. The ground, meticulously prepared and gleaming under the clear sky, set the stage for what was expected to be an unforgettable encounter. Sapper Officers gathered in large numbers, eager to witness the annual cricket encounter.
As the sun bathed the Sappers’ Cricket Ground in golden light, the setting was perfect for a thrilling encounter. The ground, meticulously prepared and shining under the clear sky, provided the ideal backdrop for an unforgettable match. Sapper Officers gathered in large numbers, eager to witness this annual sporting tradition.
Team Captain of the Sappers Blue, Brigadier Punya Karunathilaka, won the toss and elected to bat first—setting the tone for an action-packed innings. His counterpart, Brigadier Pradeep Siriwardene, leading the Sappers Red team, accepted the challenge with determination. The Sappers Blue team’s innings was a showcase of aggressive and strategic batting. The Blue team had posted an impressive total of 181 runs for the loss of 3 wickets after 20 overs. The standout performance came from 94 runs by Major Omesh Vidyarathne and 28 runs by Major General Lanka Amarapala, whose brilliant innings contributed significantly to the total.
Chasing a daunting target of 182 runs, the Sappers Red team faced an uphill battle. Despite a determined effort, they found it difficult to break through the disciplined bowling and sharp fielding of the Sappers Blue team. The bowling unit, spearheaded by Major General Lanka Amarapala, kept the pressure on throughout the inning. His economical opening spell during the powerplay, conceding just 11 runs in 4 overs and claiming 1 wicket, was instrumental in restricting the opposition. Ultimately, the Red team was limited to 136 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in their allotted 20 overs.
The Sappers Blue team secured a convincing 45-run victory, a testament to their all-round performance and effective teamwork. The match was a brilliant display of competitive cricket, marked by notable performances from both sides, highlighting the talent and sportsmanship of all players.
Major General Lanka Amarapala was awarded as the Man of the Match for his brilliant batting performances, exceptional bowling figures and for the excellent fielding.
Man of the Match - Major General Lanka Amarapala for his brilliant batting performances and exceptional bowling figures
Best Batsman – Major Omesh Vidyarathnne for outstanding batting performances
Best Bowler – Major Nilantha Kalumullage for exceptional bowling figures
The Annual Sapper Officers’ Cricket Encounter not only celebrated the spirit of sportsmanship but also strengthened the bonds of fellowship among the officers of the Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers.
